Austin Peay launches tuition-free program: Do you qualify?

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Austin Peay State University is launching a new tuition-free program in 2025.

The Clarksville-based university says this will help eligible Tennessee students pursue an undergraduate education without the burden of tuition and other fees.

The program will cover these fees for incoming freshmen and transfer students who meet the following requirements:

• They must be Tennessee residents or graduates of Fort Campbell High School.
• Their household income cannot exceed $75,000 per year.
• Students must qualify for the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship.
• They must enroll as full-time students beginning in Fall 2025 or later.

“Every student deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams through higher education, regardless of their financial circumstances,” said Dr. Mike Licari, Austin Peay president. “This program reflects our deep commitment to making college accessible and affordable for Tennessee families. We want students to focus on their education and future, not worrying about how they’ll pay for tuition.”

APSU adds that this is a last-dollar program that covers any remaining tuition and related educational fees after all other financial aid, scholarships and grants have been applied.

“This initiative directly supports our strategic vision of being the region’s university of choice for those seeking to improve their lives,” said Dr. Maria Cronley, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “We’re removing obstacles so students can focus on what matters most – their education and future careers.”

Here’s what you need to do:

To qualify for this program, prospective students must apply to APSU, complete the FAFSA, and sign up for Governors Orientation by May 1, 2025.

For more information about the Tuition-Free at Austin Peay program or to apply, visit //www.apsu.edu/tuition-free or contact the Office of Admissions at 931-221-7661 or admissions@apsu.edu.